Motorhome Campgrounds In Dartmouth, England -- Find Motorhome Parks Online
50.3522° N, 3.5794° W
Quick Overview
Dartmouth sits where the River Dart meets the English Channel, creating one of Devon's most picturesque harbor towns. Medieval streets wind up from the waterfront past half-timbered buildings, while the Royal Naval College dominates the hillside with its imposing Britannia Royal Naval College. Steam trains chug along the Dart Valley Railway, and ferries cross to Kingswear throughout the day, making this South Devon gem feel both timeless and alive.
The camping scene around Dartmouth offers several motorhome parks and campgrounds, though free camping options are limited with some no-cost sites available. Most parks here focus on full-service pitches with electric hookups, water, and waste facilities. You'll find everything from working farms with basic amenities to holiday parks with swimming pools and entertainment programs.
From your campsite, you're perfectly positioned to explore Dartmouth's maritime heritage and the stunning South Devon coastline. The historic Butterwalk and Dartmouth Castle are just minutes away, while boat trips up the River Dart reveal ancient oak woods and hidden creeks. Agatha Christie's former holiday home at Greenway sits upriver, accessible by vintage paddle steamer during summer months. The Southwest Coast Path runs right past town, offering dramatic clifftop walks to secluded beaches like Mill Creek and Compass Cove. Salcombe's sandy beaches are a 30-minute drive south, while Totnes and its alternative culture scene lies 20 minutes inland.
Camping styles here range from luxury holiday parks with heated indoor pools and kids' clubs to quieter farm sites where you'll wake to birdsong and sea views. Full hookup sites dominate, though a few parks offer tent pitches and basic facilities for those seeking a simpler experience. Most sites welcome families and provide play areas, while pet-friendly options are common given the excellent coastal walking opportunities.
Summer brings peak crowds and premium pricing, but also the warmest weather and longest days for exploring. Spring and autumn offer better value with fewer tourists, though some facilities may have reduced hours. Winter stays are possible at year-round parks, perfect for cozy fireside evenings after bracing coastal walks.
Our listings below cover everything from waterfront pitches to inland farm stays, helping you find the perfect base for your South Devon adventure.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Dartmouth
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All Dump Stations Near Dartmouth
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Showers and Toilet | 0.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Dartmouth Club Site | 1.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Hillhead Caravan Club Site | 1.9 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Hillhead Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite | 2.0 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Ramslade Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite | 4.4 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Ramslade Caravan Club Site | 4.4 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Slapton Sands Club Site | 5.3 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Start Bay Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite | 6.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Start Bay Caravan Club Site | 6.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Steamer Quay Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite | 6.9 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
Public Showers and Toilet
0.1 miDartmouth Club Site
1.6 miHillhead Caravan Club Site
1.9 miHillhead Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite
2.0 miRamslade Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite
4.4 miRamslade Caravan Club Site
4.4 miSlapton Sands Club Site
5.3 miStart Bay Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite
6.7 miStart Bay Caravan Club Site
6.7 miSteamer Quay Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite
6.9 miTraveling to Dartmouth by RV
The A381 from Newton Abbot provides the main route into Dartmouth, winding through classic Devon countryside with narrow sections that require careful navigation in larger RVs. This scenic 16-mile route passes through Totnes and follows the River Dart valley, offering glimpses of the river through ancient oak woodlands. Allow extra time for this approach, as the road narrows significantly in places and includes several sharp bends that challenge longer rigs.
From the M5, exit at Junction 31 and follow the A38 toward Plymouth before joining the A384 to Totnes, then the A381 to Dartmouth. This route covers approximately 45 miles from the motorway and takes about 90 minutes in an motorhome due to the winding country roads. The A385 from Paignton offers an alternative coastal approach but includes even narrower sections through Brixham.
Fuel up before the final approach to Dartmouth, as the town center has limited large vehicle access. The Tesco Extra in Totnes provides the last major supermarket and fuel stop, with good motorhome parking and a chance to stock up on supplies. Several farm shops along the A381 sell local produce and offer easier parking for larger vehicles.
Parking in Dartmouth town center is extremely challenging for RVs due to narrow medieval streets and height restrictions. Most campgrounds provide shuttle services or are within walking distance of the town center. The Park and Ride from Dartmouth Park and Ride operates during peak season, though space for RVs is limited.
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Dump Station Costs in Dartmouth
Nightly rates in Dartmouth vary significantly by season and location, with budget farm sites starting around £18-25 per night for a basic pitch with electric hookup. Mid-range holiday parks with amenities like shower blocks and play areas typically charge £25-40 per night, while premium waterfront sites with full service pitch and leisure facilities can reach £45-60 during peak summer months.
Free camping opportunities are extremely limited here, with a portion% of the several available sites offering no-cost stays, while a portion% charge fees. This reflects the area's popularity and the predominance of commercial holiday parks over basic stopping points.
Seasonal pricing shows dramatic variations, with July and August commanding premium rates that can double spring prices. Easter holidays also see significant increases, while October through March offers the best value with many parks reducing rates by 30-40%. Some sites close entirely from November to February, limiting winter options but keeping costs reasonable at those that remain open.
Good Sam and Camping and Caravanning Club memberships provide discounts at several local sites, typically 10-15% off standard rates. The Caravan and Motorhome Club operates a nearby site with member pricing. Book direct with campgrounds rather than through booking platforms to avoid commission fees, and consider longer stays for weekly discounts that many parks offer during quieter periods.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Dartmouth
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Best Time to Visit Dartmouth by RV
Winter
Dec-Feb
38-48°F
Crowds: Low
Many campgrounds close; those open offer lowest rates but limited facilities and shorter daylight hours.
Spring
Mar-May
45-60°F
Crowds: Medium
Excellent value with reopening facilities, mild weather, and fewer crowds; book Easter holidays early.
Summer
Jun-Aug
58-70°F
Crowds: High
Peak season with highest rates and full facilities; advance booking essential, especially during Royal Regatta.
Fall
Sep-Nov
50-62°F
Crowds: Medium
Great weather continues into October with reduced crowds; some facilities begin closing by November.
Explore the Dartmouth Area
Book well ahead for summer stays, especially during Dartmouth Royal Regatta in late August when the town fills with sailing enthusiasts and accommodation becomes scarce. Many of the better campgrounds require advance reservations from Easter through October, with some accepting bookings up to a year ahead for prime waterfront pitches.
For free camping alternatives, wild camping isn't permitted in this area, but several pub car parks allow overnight stays with permission. The Cherub Inn and Royal Castle Hotel sometimes accommodate self-contained RVs, though you'll need to call ahead and purchase meals. Dartmoor National Park, 30 minutes inland, offers more wild camping opportunities for those with proper equipment.
The Dartmouth Steam Railway makes an excellent day trip from your campsite, running vintage trains along the River Dart to Paignton. Book the round trip including the riverboat section for the full experience. Tuesday markets in Dartmouth's Foss Street offer local produce and crafts, while the Seahorse Restaurant serves some of Devon's finest seafood if you fancy a splurge.
Dog owners will love the coastal path walks, but keep pets on leads near the cliff edges and check tide times before exploring beaches. Many pubs welcome dogs, and the Royal Avenue Gardens provide a perfect spot for exercise with harbor views. The town's steep streets can be challenging for elderly pets, so consider the riverboat trips as a gentler sightseeing option.
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Dartmouth
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Dartmouth?
Little Cotton Farm offers excellent value with harbor views and easy town access, while Woodlands Grove provides luxury facilities including an indoor pool and entertainment program. Higher Brownstone Farm delivers a more authentic Devon experience with working farm atmosphere and direct coastal path access.
Is there free motorhome camping near Dartmouth?
Free camping options are extremely limited in the Dartmouth area due to its popularity and developed tourism infrastructure. Your best bet for budget camping is seeking permission at pub car parks like The Cherub Inn, though facilities will be basic and you'll need to be completely self-contained.
What is the best time of year to camp in Dartmouth?
Late spring through early autumn offers the best combination of weather and facilities, with May-June and September-October providing excellent value. Summer brings peak crowds and highest prices but also the warmest weather and full facility operations, while winter camping is possible but with limited amenities.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Dartmouth?
Most established campgrounds around Dartmouth offer full service pitch including electric, water, and waste disposal facilities. Holiday parks like Woodlands Grove and Little Cotton Farm provide comprehensive services, though basic farm sites may only offer electric hookup with separate facilities for water and waste.
Can I boondock near Dartmouth?
True wild camping opportunities are very limited in this developed coastal area of South Devon. Wild camping isn't permitted, and most land is privately owned. Your best option for off-grid camping is Dartmoor National Park, about 30 minutes inland, where wild camping is allowed with proper equipment and Leave No Trace principles.
How far in advance should I book Dartmouth campgrounds?
Summer bookings should be made 3-6 months ahead, especially for waterfront sites during peak season from June through August. The Dartmouth Royal Regatta in late August requires even earlier booking, with popular sites filling up to a year in advance. Spring and autumn stays can often be booked just weeks ahead.
Can large RVs access Dartmouth town center?
Dartmouth's medieval town center has extremely narrow streets with height and width restrictions that make large motorhome access impossible. Most campgrounds provide shuttle services or are within walking distance of town, and some offer bicycle loans. The Park and Ride service operates during peak season but has limited motorhome parking.
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Dartmouth?
Little Cotton Farm offers excellent value with harbor views and easy town access, while Woodlands Grove provides luxury facilities including an indoor pool and entertainment program. Higher Brownstone Farm delivers a more authentic Devon experience with working farm atmosphere and direct coastal path access.
Is there free motorhome camping near Dartmouth?
Free camping options are extremely limited in the Dartmouth area due to its popularity and developed tourism infrastructure. Your best bet for budget camping is seeking permission at pub car parks like The Cherub Inn, though facilities will be basic and you'll need to be completely self-contained.
What is the best time of year to camp in Dartmouth?
Late spring through early autumn offers the best combination of weather and facilities, with May-June and September-October providing excellent value. Summer brings peak crowds and highest prices but also the warmest weather and full facility operations, while winter camping is possible but with limited amenities.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Dartmouth?
Most established campgrounds around Dartmouth offer full service pitch including electric, water, and waste disposal facilities. Holiday parks like Woodlands Grove and Little Cotton Farm provide comprehensive services, though basic farm sites may only offer electric hookup with separate facilities for water and waste.
Can I boondock near Dartmouth?
True wild camping opportunities are very limited in this developed coastal area of South Devon. Wild camping isn't permitted, and most land is privately owned. Your best option for off-grid camping is Dartmoor National Park, about 30 minutes inland, where wild camping is allowed with proper equipment and Leave No Trace principles.
How far in advance should I book Dartmouth campgrounds?
Summer bookings should be made 3-6 months ahead, especially for waterfront sites during peak season from June through August. The Dartmouth Royal Regatta in late August requires even earlier booking, with popular sites filling up to a year in advance. Spring and autumn stays can often be booked just weeks ahead.
Can large RVs access Dartmouth town center?
Dartmouth's medieval town center has extremely narrow streets with height and width restrictions that make large motorhome access impossible. Most campgrounds provide shuttle services or are within walking distance of town, and some offer bicycle loans. The Park and Ride service operates during peak season but has limited motorhome parking.
Are there free dump stations in Dartmouth?
Yes — there are free RV waste disposal options available near Dartmouth.
All Dump Stations Near Dartmouth (101)
RV ParkPublic Showers and Toilet
RV ParkDartmouth Club Site
RV ParkHillhead Caravan Club Site
RV ParkHillhead Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite
RV ParkRamslade Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite
RV ParkRamslade Caravan Club Site
RV ParkSlapton Sands Club Site
RV ParkStart Bay Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite
RV ParkStart Bay Caravan Club Site
RV Park